A fire wall router is a
level of security between your home network and the Internet. Since a router is
a primary connection from a home network to the Internet, a firewall function
is combined with this device. Every home network should have a firewall to
protect its privacy.
NETGEAR
firewalls are a combination of hardware and software. The hardware component
lends itself well to NETGEAR firewalls, while the software component allows
firewalls to adapt to their specific needs.
Important
firewall information:
•
By default, some firewall features are disabled. For an explanation of why, see
Basic NETGEAR Security Enhancement
•
Often, applications outside the network must manually modify the firewall to
access it. Examples of these applications include online games, AOL, and
Voice-Over-IP. See What is port forwarding?
•
The firewall will not be secure against all types and attacks. For example, you
still need to run a virus check on all computers. Scanning to remove malware,
viruses, and spam is a function of the UTM risk management tool and is not
available on Home Drive.
•
Other products such as Windows XP create software firewalls. These can cause
network problems since they try to impose different security on the network,
which other firewalls, including NETGEAR, do not accept. See Dispose of
controversial firewalls
•
Firewall features vary by model: newer and more expensive products have more
advanced features. See NETGEAR.com/home. Click on the product family, then the
specific tool. The output spreadsheet is in Technical Specifications.
Configuration information is available in the installation guide. Be sure to
read the documentation included with the firewall product before installation.